Dignity Health Chandler Regional and Mercy Gilbert Medical Centers are seeking applicants for the 2015 Community Grants Program, which are awarded to non-profit organizations that are working collaboratively to improve the well-being of underserved populations.

The grants are provided to “communities of care” projects which consist of at least three organizations which are working together to address a health priority.

“We cannot change the world by ourselves. Partnering with others who share our vision and values is the only way to improve the health of our community,” said Kathleen Dowler, director of Community Integration with Chandler Regional and Mercy Gilbert Medical Centers.

Applicant programs will be evaluated for alignment with Dignity Health’s mission and community benefit principles which include serving the disenfranchised with unmet health needs, primary prevention, seamless continuum of care, capacity building, and collaborative governance. In addition, applicants must define the population to be served and the outcome to be achieved.

Dignity Health’s Community Grants Program is funded by contributions from its member hospitals. Typically, grant awards range from $10,000 to $75,000.

Through a community needs assessment, Dignity Health in the East Valley has identified the following as key health priorities: chronic disease (for example: diabetes, heart disease, stroke, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease/asthma), also including individuals with multiple chronic conditions or co-morbidities, mental health and obesity.